Ryan Mason has stated that Joe Rodon was "unfortunate in terms of timing" after losing his place in the Tottenham squad.
Signed from Swansea City in October after making quite a name for himself in the Championship, the Wales international has had to bide his time so far for opportunities in the Spurs first team.
Former boss Jose Mourinho did give the 23-year-old a three-game run in the Premier League in January but he soon found himself back on the bench for two games before missing out on the squad altogether.
Returning to the starting XI away at Aston Villa in March as Mourinho changed things about following their embarrassing Europa League exit, Rodon kept his place in the team for the Newcastle United, Manchester United and Everton matches and delivered some very strong showings.
However, Mason then elected to start with Toby Alderweireld and Eric Dier in his first game in charge against Southampton as he got his plans in place for the Carabao Cup final against Man City, a game in which Rodon couldn't play as he was ineligible.
The Welshman has remained out of the matchday 20 in Spurs' last two games but supporters have now called for him to return after Dier's poor performance at Leeds United last weekend.
Asked about Rodon's absence from the squad since his appointment as interim head coach, Mason confirmed that his player has been unlucky but he has caught his eye in training as he looks to win back his spot.
"Joe was unfortunate in terms of timing. He was cup-tied for the cup final so the first game I felt it was probably right to have the group consistent for what it was going to be in the next game," admitted Mason.
"He’s trained well, done well. All the 21 outfield players have competed in training and it’s made it difficult to pick a team and a squad.
"But I’ve been happy with everyone, I think the defence and team has done well. So it’s difficult. But when you play at a club like this, there’s always going to be disappointed players.
"The most important thing for me is he’s remained professional, he’s worked hard, he’s trained well and he’s been good around the club so that’s a massive tick from me."
